Apple leaves US Chamber of Commerce over climate clash

Computing giant Apple has decided to leave the US Chamber of Commerce in protest over the organization's opposition to tough climate change rules, according to a letter.

The firm "supports regulating greenhouse gas emissions, and it is frustrating to find the Chamber at odds with us in this effort," according to Apple vice president Catherine Novelli.

"We would prefer the chamber take a more progressive stance on this critical issue and play a constructive role in addressing the climate crisis," said the Apple letter dated October 5, published in US media.

"However, because the Chamber's position differs so sharply with Apple's, we have decided to resign our membership effective immediately," it added.

Apple is the fourth major US Corporation to walk out of the Chamber of Commerce over its stance on climate change.

It followed similar moves by Pacific Gas and Electricity, PNM Resources and Exelon.

Nike, the sporting goods giant, dropped its responsibilities on the Chamber's board but remains a member.

"While we'll continue to represent the broad majority of our membership on this goal, we recognize that there are some companies who stand to gain more than others with the current options on the table," Eric Wohlschlegel, a council spokesman, said in an email.